DDESVSFS: A simple, rapid and comprehensive screening tool for the Differential Diagnosis of Epileptic Seizures VS...

Functional seizures (FS) are often misclassified as epileptic seizures (ES). This study aimed to create an easy to use but comprehensive screening tool to guide further evaluation of patients presenting with this diagnostic dilemma.

Demographic, clinical and diagnostic data were collected on patients admitted for video-EEG monitoring for clarification of their diagnosis. Upon discharge, patients were classified as having ES vs FS. Using the collected characteristics and video-EEG diagnosis, we created a multivariable logistic regression model to identify predictors of ES. Then, we trained an integer-coefficient model with the most frequently selected predictors, creating a pointing system coined DDESVSFS, with scores ranging from -17 to +8 points.

43 patients with FS and 165 patients with ES were recruited. In the final integer-coefficient model, 8 predictors were identified as significant in differentiating ES from FS: normal electroencephalogram (-3 points), predisposing factors for FS (-3 points), increased number of comorbidities (-3 points), semiology suggestive of FS (-4 points), increased seizure frequency (-4 points), longer disease duration (+3 points), antiepileptic polypharmacy (+2 points) and compliance with antiepileptic drugs (+3 points). Cumulative scores of ≤ -9 points carried <5% predictive value for ES, while cumulative scores of ≥ -1 points carried >95% predictive value. The model performed well (AUC: 0.923, sensitivity: 0.945, specificity: 0.698).

We propose DDESVSFS as a simple, rapid and comprehensive prediction score for the Differential Diagnosis of Epileptic Seizures VS Functional Seizures. Large prospective studies are needed to evaluate its utility in clinical practice.